Tag Archives: Blogger Challenge

Cathy Attix is the creator of Trinkets in Bloom, a fashion DIY blog with an eye for design and creative expression. Her DIY’s are inspired by runway fashion, street style and vintage finds. She brings more than fifteen years of fashion industry experience to her creations and a lifetime of creativity and experience to her tutorials.

DIY T-SHIRT WITH LOVE IN GOLD CORD

Inspired by the Lanvin word necklaces for fall, this DIY T-Shirt with Love in Gold Cord is sure to be a great addition to your wardrobe. The delicate gold stitching in the background adds subtle detail and extra sparkle.

My inspiration and sketches to make this DIY T-shirt.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

Gold cord

T-Shirt

Gold metallic thread

Sewing needle

Sewing machine

Scissors

Flexible curve

step 1Layout your t-shirt on a flat surface and decide how you will cut your neck.
I used a flexible curve to help me get the right curve to cut my neckline.
Trace your curve with a pencil. When you are sure you have it the way you want it use your scissors to cut your neckline.

step 2Thread your gold metallic thread through your sewing machine.
Using your sewing machine, sew some swirls and curves onto your t-shirt.
You can do this freehand or lightly draw the shapes you want onto your t-shirt and follow those lines when sewing.

step 3I chose to write the word love on my t-shirt.
I drew it out on a piece of paper and then placed the piece of paper inside the t-shirt and traced it onto the shirt.

step 4Use your sewing needle and your gold metallic thread to carefully and securely sew your gold cord onto your t-shirt, following your design.
The cord is a little stiff, so it is important to make sure you sew it on securely and firmly.
Continue sewing your gold cord onto your t-shirt until you have completed your word.

DIY BEADED NECKLACE WITH LARGE GOLD CLASP

Using a large gold clasp as a closure for this chunky beaded necklace creates a stunning statement necklace in this DIY Beaded Necklace with Large Gold Clasp.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

Large Gold Clasp

Large gold ring

Large black beads

Small black beads

Needle and thread

Black satin ribbon 1 inch wide

Fabric glue

4 Large gold jump rings

Pliers

step 1Using your pliers open two of your large jump rings and add them to your gold ring.

step 2Using your needle and thread, attach the end of your thread to one of the jump rings. Use a small drop of fabric glue to secure your thread.

step 3Start threading your beads onto your thread.
I put 17 large beads onto my thread.
When you have all your beads onto your thread tie off your thread around another jump ring.
Make sure to tie it really well and add a small drop of fabric glue to hold it.
For my strands of large beads I made two strands with 17 beads and then the center strand has 18 beads. This just helps it to lay nicer.

step 4Thread your smaller beads the same way you did with the larger beads.
For my strands of smaller beads I used 23 beads for each strand.

step 5Attach your two large jump rings to your large gold clasp by threading them through the opening.

step 6Making your bow.
Fold your ribbon until you have made two loops about 3 inches wide.
Using your needle and thread sew your ribbons together.
Fold your ribbon again just like you did for the first part of your bow but a little smaller, this one will sit on top of your first one.
Sew this ribbon onto the first part you made.
Take a piece of ribbon and fold it around the looped ribbon and tack it in place. Do not sew all the way through, only sew on the back side.
Take another piece of ribbon and fold it at an angle and tack it to the back side of your bow.
Trim the ends at an angle.

DIY CLUTCH WITH PLASTIC CHAIN HANDLE

The combination of plastic chain with soft velvet make this DIY Clutch with Plastic Chain Handle a unique and on trend, elegant clutch.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

Large Plastic Chain

Velvet fabric

Satin fabric

Needle & thread

Sewing machine

Pins

Scissors

step 1I recommend making a pattern with paper to cut your fabric. (I used newspaper)
I made my fabric 13 inches by 14 inches.
Cut out 2 pieces of velvet and 2 pieces of satin the same size.

step 2Pin 1 piece of velvet to 1 piece of satin (with right sides together) and pin together across the top one of the shorter sides.
Using your sewing machine sew across the top of your fabrics. When you are sewing be sure to leave about a half inch unsewn on either side.
Do this for both pieces of velvet and satin.

step 3Flatten your fabrics out and place the velvets on top of the velvet and the satin on top of the satin (with right sides together).
Pin them together all the way around, leaving about a 3 to 4 inch opening to turn it right side out.

step 4Using your sewing machine sew all the way around leaving a 3 to 4 inch opening.

step 5Turn your fabrics right side out.
Pin the opening closed and using your needle and thread, sew the opening closed.
Fold the satin sides into the velvet.

step 6Lay your plastic chain across the width of your clutch.
Measure where you want it to be.
If necessary remove a link or two of your plastic chain to make it fit across your clutch.
Using your needle and thread sew your plastic chain on either end of your clutch, sew your chain close to the bottom of your clutch.
When your chain is sewn on you will fold the top part of your clutch over and through your chain.
Make sure you sew it enough times to make it secure. Do this for both sides.

DIY CUFF BRACELET WITH BROOCH

A few unexpected details and a bright and colorful woven band create this fun DIY Cuff Bracelet with Brooch. The combination of a soft woven band with a vintage brooch makes this a real statement bracelet.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

Multi color woven band

Vintage necklace closure

Brooch

Glue

Needle & thread

step 1Cut your multi color woven band to be a little shorter than needed to wrap around your wrist. Keep in mind that your closure will add length to your bracelet and you donâ€™t want it to be too big.

step 2Put glue along the edge of your woven band and place your closure on top of the glue.
Let dry.

step 3When your glue is dry, use your needle and thread to sew your closure onto your woven band. This will add extra support to keep everything in place.

step 4Add your brooch.

DIY T-SHIRT WITH RIBBON CIRCLES AND RHINESTONES

A different way to think about ribbon, try adding it in a different form with this DIY T-Shirt with Ribbon Circles and Rhinestones. Create texture and depth to a plain white t-shirt by sewing on ribbon circles with metallic thread and add rhinestones for sparkle and extra color.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

Ribbon 1 yard

T-shirt

Fuchsia metallic thread

Small rhinestones

Sewing machine

Pins

Glue

step 1Lay your ribbon out flat and trace circles onto the backside of your ribbon. Do this for the entire length of ribbon.

step 2Cut out your ribbon circles.

step 3Lay out your t-shirt on a flat surface and decide the placement for your ribbon circles.
When you have ribbon circles where you want them, pin them to your t-shirt.

step 4Thread your fuchsia metallic thread through your sewing machine and sew your ribbon circles to your t-shirt.
Sew back and forth a few times to make a few straight lines across your ribbon circles.

step 5Once your ribbon circles are sewn onto your t-shirt you are ready to add your rhinestones.
I placed a few rhinestones randomly in the centers of some of the ribbon circles.
Add a small amount of glue to the center of the ribbon and then carefully place your rhinestones in the glue.
Let the glue dry.

DIY ELASTIC HEADBAND WITH BROOCH

This simple no sew DIY Elastic Headband with Brooch is a quick solution to make a fun and on trend hair accessory.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

Light Gray Elastic

Brooch

Fabric glue

Scissors

Clothespin

step 1Measure around your head with the elastic, be sure to pull it a little tight, you donâ€™t want it loose.
When you cut your elastic make sure you leave about an inch to overlap.

step 2Using your fabric glue, place a small amount on one end of your elastic and overlap your ends.
Use your clothespin to hold it while the glue dries.

step 3When your glue is dry place your brooch on the side and close to the top of your headband.

If you’d like to see more of my fashion DIY tutorials please check out my blog Trinkets in Bloom!

Thanks to M & J Trimming, this was such a fun DIY Challenge to be a part of and I’m so happy to have been included with such talented bloggers!

Like this:

Erin Pruckno lives in Washington, DC, where she teaches by day and crafts by night. Her site, Thanks, I Made It, is a DIY style blog for encouraging creativity, sharing inspiration, and enjoying being able to say, “Thanks, I made it!” There you’ll find do-it-yourself projects that range from the super simple to more complex, while learning crafty skills and how to get designer looks with less money and more personality.

Like this:

After graduating from fashion school, and honing her skills through internships at Rodarte and Nike, Aimee landed her dream job and is now a working designer in Los Angeles. Constantly DIY’ing in her spare time, she created SwellMayde as a home for her readers to embrace their creativity. It is all about finding inspiration and teaching others how to bring it to reality with easy to follow steps.

DIY | STATEMENT BIB NECKLACE

I loved the concept of M&J Trimming’s Blogger Challenge, and was absolutely on board when they approached me to participate. They sent me a mystery box of supplies to utilize in a DIY. The day the box came to my door, I quickly opened it and so many ideas came rushing into my head. I couldn’t wait to get creative with this challenge. The one idea that stuck out the most was to make a statement bib necklace, inspired by the amazing tutorial Drew of Dylanex created with Geneva of A Pair and Spare. I just couldn’t get over how utterly beautiful all of Drew’s handmade pieces are!! Check out my version, using her tutorial below.

Materials:

5 or 6 necklaces that you are willing to break up, hit your local flea market to find bulk deals

Pliers

Scissors

Jump Rings

Stringing Wire (Metal or Rope)

Ribbon from the M&J Trimming Mystery Box

Steps:

1. Find the steps to the Drew’s DIY Necklace Tutorial (here). I followed her steps to create my own.

2.Then, to incorporate a feminine and colorful touch, I used ribbon from the mystery box to use as the closure of the necklace. You can simply cut 2 pieces of ribbon, about 8 to 10 inches long.

3. Tie one end of the ribbon to one end of the necklace. Repeat for the 2nd piece of ribbon. Then, tie onto your neck.

Like this:

Studs and Pearls is a DIY fashion blog owned by Kirsten Nunez. As a New Yorker and longtime lover of crafting, she’s inspired by everything from music to food to nature. She is currently working on publishing her first DIY fashion book.

Chunky Chain Necklace and Rhinestone Hair TieContrary to what most people may think, elastic can be used for more than holding up your bottoms. This underrated craft material can be incorporated into accessories in just a few steps. My favorite uses for elastic include quick and easy necklaces, and snap free hair ties. Check out how I made both projects, below!

1) Cut the elastic so that you have two strands, with one strand measuring about 11 inches.

2) Take the longer strand and tie the ends of the elastic to the ends of the chain.

3) Glue rhinestones to the elastic. Let dry completely.

4) For the hair tie, fold the 11 inch strand of elastic in half. Tie and glue the rhinestone embellishments. Let dry.

Layered Gold Necklace (and bracelets!)I’ve always had a soft spot for anything gold and minimal. This necklace features a tier of bright gold cord, creating an eye catching yet simplistic look. The natural curve of the cord is ideal for a neck piece, making this project so much easier than it actually seems.

2) Insert a head pin through the bead cap. Trim down and create a loop. Glue the bead cap onto the cord’s end.

3) Repeat on all the ends of the cord.

4) Join all three ends with a jump ring. Repeat on the other side.

5) If desired, glue rhinestones to the bead caps, or wrap the ends with gold metallic thread.

6) Attach chain to both sides.

7) Attach a jump ring and a clasp to the ends of the chain.

8) For the bracelets, take any leftover gold cord and add bead caps to the ends, as you did in Steps 4 and 5. Connect with jump rings and jewelry claps.

Rhinestone Tassel PendantI’ve always found multi-faceted rhinestones to be absolutely gorgeous. Depending on the angle of the light, various colors will shine through. With this project, you can wear a rainbow colors.

Tip: Plastic jewelry tweezers may make it easier to handle the rhinestones.

1) Apply a small amount of clear nail polish to the setting. Add rhinestones, one by one, starting along the outer edge.

2) Continue until the setting is filled with rhinestones. Add another layer of clear nail polish on top to secure.

3) Let dry completely. I love how the colors in the multi-faceted rhinestones show at different angles!

4) For the tassel, wrap thread around your fingers as shown above. Tie the top end with a
strand of thread, and cut the bottom to create an instant tassel.

5) Attach to the bottom of the setting.

Textured Coin PurseI adore this project because it uses trim and ribbon in an unconventional way. I’m constantly working with different types of fabrics, so I thought – why not use the trimmings as fabric? By sewing the ribbon and trim together, you can create a custom made “panel” of material to work with. All you need is a chic gold carabiner to top it off.

1) Cut two lengths of trim of about 15 inches (when folded, a bit longer than 7 inches) and a length of pink satin ribbon (same measurement) The 7 inch zipper can be used as a guide, but the finished coin purse will be smaller than this.

2) Unfold the trim and ribbon. Pin the trim and ribbon, “right” sides facing each other. Look closely to see the pins in the above photo.

3) Sew along the edge. I’d recommend using a zig zag stitch, as a straight stitch may not hold the weaved trim in place.

4) When sewn, the trim and ribbon will look a little like this on the “front” side.

5) Pin the trim to the other edge of the ribbon, right sides facing each other.

6) Sew.

7) The back side, when sewn.

8) Fold in half, and trim down the sides. Trim the zipper, if needed.

9) Pin one half of the zipper to one side of the coin purse (or what will be the coin purse!)

10) Sew.

11) Sew the other half of the zipper to the other end of the coin purse. This may be a bit awkward, so take your time while maneuvering the material.

11) If you cut your zipper, sew a few hand stitches at the end to serve as a stopper. Machine sew down the end and bottom to close up the coin purse.

12) Insert the carabiner right through the trim.

Your coin purse is good to go! You can also use it to store jewelry while traveling.

Like this:

Hi! I’m Lia. My real name is Amalia which rhymes with Mama Mia and not Somalia. This is why I go by Lia. I’m a single mom of 2 amazing kids who are 8 and 11. I recently lost my job and am trying to blog full time now while looking for my next endeavor. You know how you hear some kind of adage that goes something like ‘what you do when you’re procrastinating is what you should be doing with your life’? Well for me it was blogging. And here I am! A former data analyst, now loving life at home with the kiddos! I started Smart n Snazzy to share my love of fashion, DIY projects, beauty, and decor. I have expensive taste but a limited budget, so I wanted to hopefully inspire others! I also started it to have a creative outlet. I’ve always been making things since I was a kid; it’s helped with my anxiety and focus issues. I graduated from University of Colorado Boulder with my degree in Mathematics after also studying a lot of physics and astronomy. I am obsessed with 90s punk music, the beach, Mediterranean food, sports, and a good drink. I snowboard, surf (well I did when I lived in FL), and work on DIY projects in my free time, what little of it I have that is.

Project 1 ~ Glam Cans!

I haven’t met anything I can’t upcycle into something else, and I’ve been dying for just the right embellishment to make some glam can succulent planters. So when I spotted the gold bolo cord, I knew what it would be perfect for!

Challenge materials:

Gold faux-leather bolo cord

Other materials:

Tin cans

Decorative buttons

Ribbon

Scissors

Cutters to cut the button shank off the back of the buttons

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Lighter

Determine how much cord you’ll use for each can, cut and set aside with its can. Measure the ribbon as well. Hot glue your cord onto your can.

Hot glue the ribbon over the cord, and then remove the shanks from the backs of the buttons so their backs are flat. Hot glue those on the ribbon.

I wanted to plant succulents in my glam cans, but you could also use them for pencils, craft supplies, or whatever you desire!

Project 2 ~ Woven Headband

I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to make with this gorgeous woven ribbon trim, so I asked my daughter and she immediately said ‘a headband!’ So I did!

Challenge materials:

Woven ribbon trim

fuchsia thread

Other materials:

Elastic hair tie (I was lucky to have a matching fuchsia one!)

Needle (we’ll be doing some simple hand sewing)

Scissors

Washi tape

Measuring tape

Lighter (not pictured)

Wrap a piece of washi tape around the trim, centering it at about 20.5″. Cut down the middle of the tape (this prevents the ribbon from unraveling.) Fold the trim over one side of the elastic, and sew the trim back on itself – make sure you don’t sew through the elastic! I sewed up and down three times to ensure the stitches were tight. Then trim the ends and fuse with the lighter.

Repeat with the other side, making sure that the ribbon is not twisted. When done sewing, trim the excess and fuse the ends with the lighter.

All done! So pretty, and I love the colors for fall. It looks chic for the gym, or with any hairstyle!

Project 3 ~ Chic Tassel Keychain

Once I saw this lovely carabiner clip, I immediately wanted to make a chic keychain clip of it.

Challenge materials:

Gold carabiner clip

Gold and fuchsia thread

E-6000 glue

Other materials:

Scissors

Split key ring

Wooden bead (or any bead you have with a wide hole)

Start by making the tassel. Use your fingers and wrap the fuchsia thread around them as shown, interspersing with a few wraps of gold thread here and there. Once you have a good amount for a tassel, slip it off and tie it in the center, snip the ends, and slide your bead on from the tied top. Slide the bead down a little so you can slip the tassel on the carabiner clip. Apply a dollop of glue to the inside of the bead (or just on the threads where the bead will ultimately sit) and push the bead into its final resting place. Add your key ring and you’re done!

I love how chic yet practical this is. I can never find my keys in my purse, and now it’s so much easier to find them!

Project 4 ~ Chunky Link Necklace

As soon as I saw this gorgeous milky acrylic link chain, I wanted to weave metal chain through it. It was so easy and makes such a unique statement piece.

Challenge materials:

Acrylic link chain

Other materials:

Lightweight aluminum chain

Jewelry pliers

Tape measure

2 medium jump rings

1 large jump ring

Lobster clasp

Measure and cut 5 pieces of chain 22″ long. Measure your acrylic links and remove any links past 18″. Gather the ends of the chain and attach using a jump ring at either end. Weave through the acrylic links.

When you get to the end, wrap the chain around the last links. Attach the lobster clasp to one jump ring, and the large jump ring to the other.

So pretty and fun! I can’t wait to wear this with a plain shirt. I think it will especially be set off by fall’s rich jewel tones.

Project 5 ~ Preppy Ribbon Clutch

Of all the challenge materials, I struggled the most with the fuchsia satin ribbon. But once the idea came to me, this is now hands down my favorite project I made!

Challenge materials:

Fuchsia satin ribbon

Fuchsia thread

Other materials:

9″ zipper

Coordinating colors of satin thread

Muslin

Fabric glue

Needle (we’re hand-sewing again)

Scissors

Measuring tape

Measure and cut a piece of muslin fabric about 10.5″ x 12″. Fold it in half, this will be the shape / size of your clutch. Don’t cut the ribbon yet! Use your fabric glue to adhere the ribbon to one side of your pouch, then flip it over.

Fold the ribbon over the edge and glue it down on the other side. Let dry overnight, cut the ribbon where it was folded, and cut the ribbon excess so it’s flush with the fabric. If there’s excess fabric at the top and bottom, fold it so it’s flush with the fabric and use the bottom edge of your scissors to crease the fold.

I didn’t want the zipper to be the entire length of the clutch, so I used some excess fuchsia ribbon to extend it at either end. Sew it on, as shown above. Now it’s time to sew it to your clutch. Normally, you’d sew the zipper right side to right side, but I wanted for the entire stripe of ribbon to be visible, and I like the contrasting thread showing, so I sewed it right side (zipper) to wrong side (fabric).

Bring the other end up to meet the zipper. You’ll have a tube, with openings on either end. Open the zipper so it’s easier to sew on. Once the zipper is done, turn the pouch inside out, I found it easiest to do this through the zipper. Now you’re going to sew the sides. When both sides are sewn, turn right-side out and use a pencil or something to poke the corners out. I chose to add a simple tassel to the zipper pull by just looping through some thin velvet ribbon.

This is so easy to make, is sturdy, and beautiful for fall! I love this color combo, and can’t wait to carry this with everything! You could also use it as a makeup pouch, or for whatever your little heart desires!

Project 6 ~ Hair Ties

These might be the easiest project yet. When I saw the foldover elastic, I thought ‘Twistband hair ties’.

Challenge materials:

Silvery foldover elastic

Other materials:

Scissors

Measuring tape

Lighter

Cut lengths of elastic about 9.5″ long. Fold in half, tie the loose ends in a knot leaving about a half inch excess. Singe the ends with a lighter, and that’s it!

This style hair tie is so popular right now, and for how easy they are to make (and how inexpensive too!) I will never pay the outrageous prices when I can DIY my own!

Project 7 ~ Crystal and ‘Lucite’ Earrings

I love the look of bold, bright crystal stones on lucite, it really sets off their beautiful color. There’s a much easier alternative to lucite, and you won’t believe how easy it is!

Challenge materials:

Blue crystals

E-6000 glue

Other materials:

Shrinky dink plastic

2 sew on rhinestones

Hand-drawn template (for the marquise shape I drew it 5″ long by about 4″ wide; for the large circle I traced a soda bottle cap and for the small circle I traced my chapstick!)

Tape

6 small jump rings

2 earring wires

Jewelry pliers

Hole punch

Scissors

Tweezers

Skewer or toothpick

Tape your template to the plastic and cut out the shapes. Repeat for 2 of each shape. Make sure to punch holes where you’ll want your jump rings to go before you bake the plastic! Bake the shapes according to the directions on the shrinky dink package.

Squeeze out a dollop of glue onto some scrap paper, and use the pointy end of the skewer to apply a dot of glue to the back of a rhinestone. Use tweezers to put the rhinestones in place.

When you are done with your stones, it’s time to attach the pieces. Use jewelry pliers to attach jump rings, adding an earring hook to the top jump ring.

I can’t get over how glam these earrings are and how expensive they look. You’d never guess it’s not lucite!

Like this:

Kristen Turner: A Southern Belle living the champagne life on a beer budget, Kristen created her blog Glitter ‘N Glue in 2010 to give readers a creative way to craft the looks for less. Glitter ‘N Glue is a collection of weekly fashion and decor do-it-yourself project tutorials and videos.

METALLIC GOLD CORD WRAPPED VASEAdd a little glam to a plain clear vase by dressing it up metallic gold cord.

Materials: Glass Vase, Metallic Gold Cord, Glue

Place a healthy amount of glue at the bottom of your vase. Place the end of your cord in the glue, hold and let set. Then, wrap the cord around the vase.

Wrap the cord around the vase adding glue to the back of the cords as you go.

Allow at least an hour for your glue to dry before use

RHINESTONE ROPE NECKLACEVersatile statement necklace should always be a staple in any jewelry box. This project mixed two of my fashion favorites… crystals and a pop of color!

Materials: About 2 yards of cupchain and thread also barrel necklace closure, a lobster claw, a jump ring and glue

Start with four pieces of cupchain each about a half a yard in length

Use your thread to tie all four pieces together at one end

Wrap your thread through the spaces of the cupchain leaving the rhinestones exposed

Add a healthy amount of glue to the inside of your barrel closure. Place the closures on the ends of your necklace. Allow it time to dry overnight, then place a jump ring and lobster claw on one of the barrel closures and a jump ring through the hole of the other.

It can be worn as a necklace…

or as a bracelet

CRYSTAL CLUSTER NAIL ARTNo outfit is complete without the perfect manicure. While a trip to the nail salon can be fun and relaxing it can also be costly. At home mani’s allow you to personalize your look and save a few bucks!

Materials: Flat back crystals, clear nail polish, your favorite nail color plus other essentials you might need for an at home manicure

First apply your favorite color to your nails. Then, apply a clear top coat. Place your crystals directly to the nail while your top coat is still wet. If needed use a pair of tweezers to help you pick up the crystals.

Your crystal design can be as simple or as creative as you desire. The design is completely up to you. Once the top coat has dried, apply another coat of clear polish over your crystals.

Like this:

Carly J. Cais has been a DIY’er from the moment she strung macaroni on yarn to make necklaces at age 3. Completely self-taught, she produced a short-lived clothing and jewelry line, RIVETED, in 2007, and founded her DIY and fashion blog Chic Steals in 2008. She loves sharing ideas and how-to’s for making one’s own clothing, accessories, and jewelry on her blog, along with local fashion lines lookbooks, styling inspiration, and outfit photos.

I was thrilled to be able to take part in M&J Trimming’s latest DIY Challenge, this time using rich Fall purples and shimmery golds from their box overflowing with fun DIY supplies and trims. I had a blast playing with pretty ribbons, delicate thread, and chunky chains! With M&J Trimming’s latest trims and embellishments, it’s easy to add personalization to pieces to take you from late Summer into Fall. Here are the projects I’ve been working on:

DIY Thread-Wrapped HoopsAdd a little texture and color to some plain hoop earrings by wrapping them in thin embroidery thread: an easy project to do while watching TV to keep your hands busy! Colored thread pops against metallic thread and creates a delicate – rather than overbearing – decorative touch.

1. Dab a small amount of E6000 glue onto the inside of one of your hoops where you want to start wrapping.

2. Place the end of the thread into the glue.

3. Wrap the thread numerous times around the hoop until you’ve built up enough.

4. Cut the end of the thread, dab on some more glue, and press down to finish one color.

5. Wrap the second (and third, if you’re using 3) color of thread in exactly the same way.

6. Allow the glue to dry before handling.

That’s it! This technique can be done on any jewelry as long as there is something to wrap around – and it is also a great way to hide tarnishing or rubs! Plus, if you get tired of the colors – snip, snip! – And you’re back to your original piece!

Enjoy jazzing up some boring jewelry with a bit of color for Fall :-)

DIY Chunky Chain Ribbon NecklaceSometimes a chunky chain is just begging for a bit more adornment. Adding a bright pop of color with a soft satin ribbon adds a feminine touch that contrasts with the boldness of the chain.

1. Use pliers to separate a chain link so you have a choker-length chain.

2. Heat-seal the end of the ribbon with an open flame.

3. Thread one end of the ribbon into the last link of the chain.

4. Spread a small line of glue onto the end of the ribbon.

5. Fold the ribbon over.

6. Use clothespins to secure the fold until the glue dries.

7. Repeat for the other end of the ribbon.

8. Once the glue is dry, cut the ribbon in half, angling the ends.

9. Heat-seal both ends to finish.

And you’re done! With a statement piece like this, you can wear all on its own, or layer more delicate chains underneath for a truly over-the-top feel.

DIY Ombre Hair ElasticsIt seems in every store soft, tied hair elastics are flying off the shelves – and at $16 or more a set, they pose a pretty serious threat to your wallet. Foldover elastic by the foot is much more affordable – and totally customizable – for your own unique take on the trend.

1. Eyeball the size of your elastics by making sure you have enough to go around your wrist + 2″ or so. Fold over.

2. Tie near the end in a tight knot.

3. Cut the ends close to the knot.

4. Use a flame to heat-seal the cut ends.

5. Dab paint on to the folded end, putting less on near the knot to create an ombre effect.

6. Allow to dry.

And that’s all there is to it! You could potentially use the elastics as-is, without color – but I love adding a bit of personalization to everything, so why not? Try different colors of elastic, and contrasting colors of paint, to create a fun rainbow!

DIY Rhinestone Focal Braided Bracelet/ChokerSparkly jewelry livens up any outfit and brings glamour day or night. Creating your own custom rhinestone-encrusted setting to a focal piece is a challenge, but the results are amazing and truly worth it. Plus, what could be better than a piece you can wear as a bracelet or a choker necklace? Double duty accessories are always a blast!

5. Smooth the Apoxie clay with your finger to fix any cracks or bumps.
6. Press an oval jump ring into either end of the focal, pressing into the clay and smoothing any gaps around the wire. Allow the jump ring to protrude slightly so you can attach jump rings to it later.

7. Use a toothpick to press the rhinestones into the clay around the edge of your focal, making sure to sink them in slightly so the clay “grips” them.
8. Allow to dry 24 hours until the clay is hard. (*hint: For a glossy enamel-like finish to the epoxy clay, once dry you can coat with 1-3 coats of Mod Podge Gloss if you so choose.)
9. Attach an end crimp to one end of the leather braid.

10. Use a jump ring to attach to the loop at one end of the focal.

11. Wrap the braid around your wrist several times, until it is the length you want.

12. Cut.

13. Attach a crimp end and jump ring to the cut end of the braid, and attach to the other side of the focal.
14. Cut the braid in half, and finish each end with a crimp end, jump ring, and the clasp pieces.

You’re done! Wear wrapped around your wrist several times (as a single piece arm party!), or even as a necklace if the mood strikes.

We are very glad to announce our Third Annual M&J Blogger Challenge! We will be posting each blogger’s DIY posts throughout the week…Stay tuned and enjoy!

Carly J. Cais has been a DIY’er from the moment she strung macaroni on yarn to make necklaces at age 3. Completely self-taught, she produced a short-lived clothing and jewelry line, RIVETED, in 2007, and founded her DIY and fashion blog Chic Steals in 2008. She loves sharing ideas and how-to’s for making one’s own clothing, accessories, and jewelry on her blog, along with local fashion lines lookbooks, styling inspiration, and outfit photos.

Kristen Turner: A Southern Belle living the champagne life on a beer budget, Kristen created her blog Glitter ‘N Glue in 2010 to give readers a creative way to craft the looks for less. Glitter ‘N Glue is a collection of weekly fashion and decor do-it-yourself project tutorials and videos.

Hi! I’m Lia. My real name is Amalia which rhymes with Mama Mia and not Somalia. This is why I go by Lia. I’m a single mom of 2 amazing kids who are 8 and 11. I recently lost my job and am trying to blog full time now while looking for my next endeavor. You know how you hear some kind of adage that goes something like ‘what you do when you’re procrastinating is what you should be doing with your life’? Well for me it was blogging. And here I am! A former data analyst, now loving life at home with the kiddos! I started Smart n Snazzy to share my love of fashion, DIY projects, beauty, and decor. I have expensive taste but a limited budget, so I wanted to hopefully inspire others! I also started it to have a creative outlet. I’ve always been making things since I was a kid; it’s helped with my anxiety and focus issues. I graduated from University of Colorado Boulder with my degree in Mathematics after also studying a lot of physics and astronomy. I am obsessed with 90s punk music, the beach, Mediterranean food, sports, and a good drink. I snowboard, surf (well I did when I lived in FL), and work on DIY projects in my free time, what little of it I have that is.

Studs and Pearls is a DIY fashion blog owned by Kirsten Nunez. As a New Yorker and longtime lover of crafting, she’s inspired by everything from music to food to nature. She is currently working on publishing her first DIY fashion book.

After graduating from fashion school, and honing her skills through internships at Rodarte and Nike, Aimee landed her dream job and is now a working designer in Los Angeles. Constantly DIY’ing in her spare time, she created SwellMayde as a home for her readers to embrace their creativity. It is all about finding inspiration and teaching others how to bring it to reality with easy to follow steps.

Erin Pruckno lives in Washington, DC, where she teaches by day and crafts by night. Her site, Thanks, I Made It, is a DIY style blog for encouraging creativity, sharing inspiration, and enjoying being able to say, “Thanks, I made it!” There you’ll find do-it-yourself projects that range from the super simple to more complex, while learning crafty skills and how to get designer looks with less money and more personality.

Cathy Attix is the creator of Trinkets in Bloom, a fashion DIY blog with an eye for design and creative expression. Her DIY’s are inspired by runway fashion, street style and vintage finds. She brings more than fifteen years of fashion industry experience to her creations and a lifetime of creativity and experience to her tutorials.

M&J has always been my go-to source for supplies and inspiration, so being asked to be September’s Blogger of the Month was so flattering and exciting! When I was very young, my great-aunt gave me a beautiful box full of gorgeous silk ribbons for my birthday. I was only about 6 at the time, but I still remember it as one of my favorite presents. When I opened M&J’s box and saw the stunning ribbons they had picked out for me, I felt like a little kid again! There are so many ways to use ribbons and embellishments to take pieces you already have and update them to look fresh off the runway.

I am always tying my hair back in the middle of the day to get it out of my face so I wear a hair elastic on my wrist at all times. This easy DIY brightens up boring hair elastics for a tie that looks just as cute on your wrist as it will in your ponytail!

I absolutely love a great vintage tee. Adding some frills and beaded embellishments can give them a feminine touch – making the perfect top to pair with some leggings and booties for a sweet hard rock look.

Prada’s S/S 11 lollipop colored stripes on sophisticated black items inspired the midi skirt I created. I don’t have a sewing machine, so everything you see here was sewn by hand. It doesn’t take much time, and if you make sure you get a perfectly-matching color of thread, it doesn’t take much talent either!

I had so much fun creating these projects with the surprise box that M&J Trimming sent me. There’s a lot of variety within these 6 projects, so I hope you’re inspired to try out at least one of them! Enjoy, and Happy DIY’ing!

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Project 1: Multi-Finger ring

Multi-finger rings have been spotted everywhere lately. As one of this season’s hottest trends, you can make your very own multi-finger ring with just a few supplies.

Tip: Wrap tape around the ends of the cord to prevent them from fraying while you make the bracelet.1) Cut the cord into two 30 inch pieces, and thread one piece through the first link of the curb chain. Fold the thread in half to make sure that there’s the same amount of thread on either side. Take the bottom strand, fold it over the top strand and then through the second link.
2) Take this strand and fold it back over the chain, and under the other strand. That other strand then goes through the chain.

3) Repeat steps 1-2 until you reach the end

4) Thread the other piece of cord through the first link of the chain, and repeat until you’ve braided the other side.

5) Sew the ends together, and sew on the button to accent the bracelet.

6) Sew the clasp onto the cord, trim the ends and secure with clear nail polish to prevent fraying.

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Project 3: Ribbon Wrap Bracelet

This Ribbon Wrap Bracelet is the ultimate spring accessory; it totally reminds me of flowers, sunshine and nature. You can also use the same method with different types of ribbons to create a completely different vibe.

1) Fold the ribbon in half about 4 times. You might need to fold more or less times depending on the size of your wrist.
2) Tie the ends together in a bow.

3) Wrap a 1.5 inch piece of rhinestone trim around the bow, and secure with hot glue.

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Project 4: Shoulder Trim Shirt

You can give some life to a plain old shirt by using gold trim to accent the shoulders. I love the way the trim hangs off the sleeves – it adds a sultry, flirty element. Regardless of what color shirt you choose, the gold trim will look amazing with any color.

1) Find the seam on the shoulder of your shirt. Line the trim along the seam and sew the edge of the trim to the edge of the shirt.
2) Sew the trim in the middle, with just a one or two simple stitches.

3) Sew in a few more spots along the trim.

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Project 5: Gold Trim Headband

This headband is my personal favorite; it can add some gypsy-inspired flair to any outfit, and will look great whether you have short or long hair.

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Project 6: Thread Tassel Keychain

Tassels are one of the hottest trends right now. You can easily make your own tassel with some thread, a pair of scissors and a small book. The best part? You can even use different colored threads to create fun, multi-colored tassels.